We now present a set of exercises for which the calculator might be the preferred tool. As indicated by the placement of this explanation, you should refrain from using a calculator on the exercises that precede this.

Recall from Section 10.3 that your calculator has a negative key. Using this makes multiplication and division of real numbers a relatively straightforward process. Remember that you need to press the negative key after entering the number on a scientific calculator, but press it before entering the number on a graphing calculator.

To evaluate the expression: 457(−734)

Step 1

Press the clear key.

Step 2

Enter the numbers as written.

Use the negative key, as necessary, and the proper operation.

457

734

Step 3

Press enter or equals.

or

Your display should read −335438.

If we replace × with ÷ in step 2, we get 457 ÷ (−734) ≈ −0.623.

You can also use a calculator to raise real numbers to a power. You should be able to find a power key, either (called a caret) or. Use this key to separate the base from the power.

To evaluate the expression: (−3)6

Step1

Press the clear key.

Step2

Enter the openparenthesis key, the negative key, the base number 3, and then the closeparenthesis key. Enter the power key and the exponent.